Gender disparity in leadership positions: a bibliometric study

Abstract

Objective. The present research aims to carry out a survey of scientific production on gender disparity in the global and national context, in order to explore and elucidate aspects involving the theme “women in leadership positions” and the potential relationships with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ethnic-racial issues with a focus on Brazil. Method. Characterized as quantitative, supported by bibliometrics to obtain quantitative assessment techniques and tools and the analysis of inter-comparisons of activity, productivity and scientific progress. Results. There is an evident interest in the global scientific community in the topic researched, and a significant number of countries emerging in the discussion. However, Brazil enters the scenario with a delay of two decades, but it already has significant international connections in its collaborations. The SDGs align with the proposed discussion, suggesting that the fight for gender equality affects the development and advancement of a society, both local and global. Finally, the intersection of the theme with racial aspects showed a timid representation, proving the urgent need for more research that addresses the demands of minorities. Conclusions. More research is necessary on gender disparity in different contexts and specificities, and one of the possible ways to expand and enrich such productions can be through scientific collaboration between countries, institutions and authors. Future research may complement or even improve the results obtained through new methods and/or tools.